Mulhacén Peak

Mulhacén Peak tarareare (Atlas Obscura User)

Jutting up above the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains, Mulhacén Peak, the highest in continental Spain (and for that matter, one of the highest in Europe) may be the final resting place of a 15th century king.

The path to Spain’s tallest mainland peak is not actually too challenging, gently rising along the back of the mountain, but the view from the top is nonetheless breathtaking. So much so that the Muslim king of 15th century Granada, Abu l-Hasan Ali (Muley Hacén in the Spanish), is said to have been interred on the rocky summit. Unfortunately there does not seem to be archaeological evidence of this, but the peak is named after the ruler all the same.

Despite the peak’s relative ease (the summit can be reached in a day trip), a group of hikers perished on the slopes in 2006 and a commemorative plaque now remembers them at the summit.

Know Before You Go

Using the western approach (from Granada), drive east on the A-395 in the direction of the Sierra Nevada Ski and Mountain Resort. Once there, continue to the Albergue Universitario de Sierra Nevada where you can park. You can purchase your tickets for the mini bus in the park office located within the albergue.